Only a hop, skip, and jump away from the United States, Canada boasts a wealth of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and unforgettable experiences. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the allure of Toronto, there’s something to captivate every traveler who wants to take a visit up north.
Banff National Park
Perhaps one of the most well-known outdoorsy destinations in Canada that has taken social media by storm is Banff National Park. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is a paradise for nature enthusiasts who love to see what mother nature has to offer. With its stunning glacial blue-green lakes, towering mountains, and abundant wildlife, it’s no wonder this park is a top choice for visitors. Here’s what to look out for if you head to Banff:
- Lake Louise: This iconic turquoise lake is a must-see, offering opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and simply soaking in the breathtaking scenery. Did I mention it’s Instagram-worthy?
- Moraine Lake: Another stunning glacial lake in Banff and arguably a little less crowded, Moraine Lake is known for its vivid blue colour and picturesque surroundings.
- Wildlife encounters: Keep an eye out for wildlife like bears, elk, and other wildlife as you explore the park’s trails.
Toronto
Canada’s largest city, Toronto, offers a unique blend of culture, entertainment, and culinary excellence. With its iconic skyline that you’ve probably seen online, diverse neighbourhoods, and world-class attractions, there are plenty of things to do in Toronto if city life is more up your alley. Head to these places in Toronto:
- CN Tower: The Canadian National Tower, otherwise known as The CN Tower, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city from the top of Canada’s tallest freestanding structure at a striking 553.3 miles high.
- Distillery District: Immerse yourself in Toronto’s history while enjoying shopping, dining, and entertainment in this charming 19th-century district. If you’re in Toronto around the holidays, check out the Christmas Market that takes over the streets every December.
- Art Gallery of Ontario: You could spend hours in The Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto’s world-class museum that houses over 90,000 works of art.
Whistler
North of Vancouver, Whistler is a year-round destination renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding in winter and hiking, biking, and golf in summer. This stunning resort town offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation perfect for the adventurer. Here’s what you can do in Whistler:
- Hit the slopes: Whistler Blackcomb is a skier and snowboarder’s paradise, with endless trails for all levels.
- Embrace the outdoors: Enjoy hiking, biking, or golfing in the stunning mountain scenery during the warmer months.
- Relax in Whistler Village: Unwind after a day of hiking or skiing with shopping, dining, and spa treatments in Whistler Village.
Montreal
For the fashionistas, Montreal is known to be the fashion hub of Canada. With its European charm, vibrant culture, and delicious food, Montreal is a captivating city with picturesque architecture. When in Montreal, be sure to check out:
- Old Montreal: Step back in time and wander through the cobblestone streets of this historic district that has charming Parisian flair.
- Nightlife: Becoming a popular bachelor and bachelorette destination, Montreal is known for its lively nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues.
- Delicious cuisine: Indulge in poutine, pikliz, smoked meat, and other culinary delights Montreal has to offer.
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls might be one of the most visited destinations in Canada, but is absolutely worth visiting despite the crowds. This natural waterfall wonder is a breathtaking spectacle that attracts millions of visitors each year and it does not disappoint. Here’s where to go during your visit:
- The falls: Take an exhilarating boat tour to get up close to the falls or enjoy stunning views from various observation points. Visitors beware that it’s hard to stay dry when you visit which adds to the allure.
- Niagara-on-the-Lake: This charming nearby town offers a delightful escape during your trip to Niagara Falls with its historic architecture, wineries, and theatres. It’s a fantastic place to go to get away from the crowds.
- Thrilling attractions: From thrilling rides to interactive exhibits, Niagara Falls offers entertainment for all ages like the SkyWheel.
